Ember Dawning Infinity (Book Six)

Part One

"Even the biggest and best carnivals…have their shadows…"

Chapter One

Long before the muddy colored, Transcended Guardianship shield disintegrated without any warning, I knew something was off. I had been shivering and praying from the second my dad walked out of the room because his exit felt like a deadly mistake. When the shield was suddenly withdrawn and he was nowhere in sight, it was like a subtle confirmation of my worry.

Something is really wrong with my dad…he’s in trouble.

A nagging suspicion crept over me, leaving my soul desperate and afraid. It was one of those feelings of impending dread that a person gets right before a destructive storm…or the moment that precedes…death.

This horrific thought led me to take a huge and impulsive risk. I whispered, Tray… and blew a kiss into the air. Nothing happened!

Then, the terrible events began to unfold and I watched my premonition…become reality.

Jaysen maintained his character although I’m sure he was puzzled as he watched my protective shield disappear, earlier. For some reason, he didn’t notice when I tried to call out to my rainbow bubble. If he had, he would already be doing something.

The unknown storm is brewing…threatening to sweep us into…the abyss.

I tried to convince myself that I’m freaking out over nothing and that everything’s alright – despite the strange circumstances and my building apprehension.

After all, my husband is right here with me…

But, so is a Shadow Fall Principality…

The gnawing trepidation grew into a leviathan of unbridled terror as the minutes ticked away into infinity and I was still sitting…exposed…unprotected…vulnerable. My racing thoughts refused to deliver any definitive course of action.

I need to find my dad! He needs me and I just know he’s in danger.

However, I have a number of challenges should I just jump up and attempt to conduct a panicked search. If I take off running and start screaming his name, our con job will be blown – period. He is supposed to be my owner, and property doesn’t exactly form a loving attachment. Last night, I claimed to be petrified of his wrath. So, why would I suddenly start a frantic hunt to find a man who might just beat me for being noisy and causing trouble?

I seriously doubt Critical, who is standing guard in front of the door, will just move out of my way and let me wander around Overpower like some crazy girl. He has the right to use deadly force to make sure I stay put. He’s mentioned his control in amusement to Danyon Weston, several times since Rhoan and my dad left the room.

The instant that stupid demon gets remotely close to my body my husband will react to protect me – no doubt about it. I can channel because I have some immunity to the security system restrictions. Jaysen definitely does not share in that luxury. So even if I make it through the encounter and destroy Critical, my husband could and likely would be killed by the security measures.

Danyon Weston will challenge me to a fight. That is a minor annoyance to him and certain death for me. I wouldn’t be so concerned about my ultimate defeat in the Fatality Stadium, but he will return to Overpower and challenge my dad.

Or, the Principality might just disappear without a trace and sic all his demons on the remaining members of my family. Everyone we love becomes vulnerable…a target for a pack of rabid demons on the hunt.

My uncle has possession of my dad’s herald. If I blow our con job, he will simply use the device and vanish with him. Then, my dad is gone…forever.

The horrific frantic thoughts were forcing my spirit light to zigzag through me in a chaotic frenzy. The silver mist wrapped around the unpredictable internal tsunami and attempted to gain command over it. Even with Jaysen’s spirit fighting against the madness, I was quickly losing control…

My husband grabbed the table to steady himself, as he started to feel the spiritual tempest inside my soul. We are eternally linked, so he is experiencing the raging inner battle right along with me. Although he has no idea what’s causing this inner turmoil, he is preparing to react…reveal himself.

That reaction will get him killed!

Before either one of us could do anything – detrimental or otherwise – my uncle came back in, looking content and satisfied.

My dad entered the room behind him…consumed by darkness…in the death grip of his Shadow stance…

I involuntarily moved in his direction…reaching out for him…searching for my Guardian…

He looked into my eyes…the wicked smile revealed his unspoken intentions.

Chills ran down my spine.

There’s really no way…to stop him!

That might be his body, casually leaning with his back against the wall. That might even be his ocean colored eyes, malevolently staring at me…warning me of the incoming danger. But, those features I have traced countless times in my life and those familiar eyes I’m seeing…

Don’t fool me in the slightest…

The person that I’m currently looking at is not – in any way – my dad!

Terrified beyond reason, I helplessly watched as my uncle motioned to speak privately with Critical. Another immature demon had entered the room and he immediately struck up a conversation with Danyon. Even I could figure out that this extra staff member was brought in to distract the dark Underlord. But strangely he didn’t appear to notice.

That realization didn’t bring me any relief from the horrible grip of fear. But, their conversations provided me with an opportunity to scope out the guy who looks like my dad.

He was no longer looking at me. In fact, he was staring daggers at the Principality. Rubbing his hands together in anticipation, it’s like he is getting ready to rip through him for fun. This scene…his facial expression…his body language…is so…familiar.

Then, suddenly it hit me – my dad is consumed in his Shadow Guardianship stance!!

My panic turned into outright horror as my frantic thoughts went sailing, chaotically. I know he wouldn’t switch into that posture intentionally. So, something bad must’ve happened – my daddy has been taken over by a demon!

As that awareness dawned on me…a vital piece of my spirit…snapped. My gypsy mask crumbled as my vision narrowed. Resolute, I’m going to step in-between my dad and the Principality. An epic storm is building inside my spirit. I am readying myself to annihilate Danyon Weston. The power is awakening…I am getting prepared to move the Arc Houses. The results will be cataclysmic…devastating…unyielding. The alarm is going to sound, any second.

While in the midst of making my reckless decision, the promise I made to never engage a Shadow Fall was long forgotten. Apparently, my mind is incapable of rational thought when my dad is in real trouble.

My inner voice was screaming insanely, trying to get my attention. It was yelling for me to let go of the building power. I ignored the voice without any internal debate. I am intent on taking my chosen action. Everything inside me is prepared to protect my dad…

Then, I felt a strange and indescribable sensation. My internal climate changed and my mental resolve crumbled. I knew – without a single doubt – the only way I can protect my dad in this case…is to do…nothing. And nothing is precisely what I am going to do!

Where did that crazy idea come from???

One minute I was moving the Houses, focusing on Danyon Weston and fully intending to strike with lethal force. The next minute, I had the most overwhelming compulsion to stop everything and do nothing. I just knew what to do to protect my dad…but, how???

My spirit was unsettled. The Houses remained ready to deliver the divine power. They are only awaiting my command. Immobile, I curiously attempted to sort through what had just happened.

My soul feels different, somehow. The strong desire to protect my dad had been doubled…no, tripled. It now feels like the most urgent, dire compulsion I have ever experienced. The only reason I exist is to protect my dad.

There has to be some reason I changed my course of action. I was determined…ready… then, I did nothing. And, that feels right?? There has to be a reason that I changed my course of action. Think, Ember, think – you can figure this out.

I changed my mind because…because…doing nothing was the only way to truly protect my dad. Eureka, that’s it!

The threat was too great. The only way to guard and protect my daddy from harm was to do nothing. So…that means…we’ve somehow reversed roles. I am his Guardian.

I had figured out the puzzle without anyone’s help – go me! I mentally patted myself on the back. This must be exactly how my dad feels when he stands by silently, protecting me. This Guardianship thing is really stressful and complicated. It’s strange to do nothing when it feels like I should be taking…

Wait, I was just shoved into Transcended Guardianship stance!

The realization struck me and I was so amazed I couldn’t seem to function. I am in Transcended Guardianship stance – this is unbelievable! I have never been positioned in any type of posture. But I am definitely my dad’s Celestial Guardian.

The epic, rising power of the Houses was stripped away as I fell to my knees. The stripping sanctified a small portion of the ground because it can only be accomplished by the hand of the Creator. Holy sanctified ground has been touched by the Maker. It requires no sacrifice and can never be tainted.

The severe need to take action was also removed from me during the stripping process. Protecting my dad means doing nothing.

I surrendered and was sufficiently humbled at the same time. The Transcended Guardianship stance was slowly ebbing away – never to return to me. Still, the indescribable feeling of that incredible protective power, lingered in my soul for another precious, fleeting moment.

Awestruck, I didn’t move an inch, speak a word or look at anything. I had almost caused a massive catastrophe in my very human panic. Then, something even more incredible struck me…I had just been distracted by the Creator!

I didn’t have time to consider the hideous possibilities (or even say a quick prayer of thanks) because Rhoan would start speaking. Our con job resumed and no one knew about my divinely averted meltdown.

Everyone, draw your attention to the monitor. Critical is going to play a very interesting video for us… Rhoan finally offered.

A few seconds later, the footage from last night was displayed. Danyon and Kaden watched in warped fascination as Bane bowed before me. Rhoan only played that one small section. He didn’t show any part of the video where Bane was actively avoiding me. The audio was muted as well.

Kaden was confused by what he was seeing and what it meant. However, Danyon is shrewd and skilled at interpreting betrayal. He somehow knew where this scenario was headed. It appeared he was working his way up to the nuclear stages of anger.

I smiled at him, innocently and flipped my hair to demonstrate my disinterest.

Danyon aimed his malevolent glare in my direction. His full focus is on me for the moment. The security system sounded an alarm as the angry powder keg built inside him. His look of pure hatred was unmistakable. He wants to retaliate. The dark Underlord clenched his fists and silently threatened me.

My dad heard the security system warn of Danyon’s proposed attack. He watched the Principality dangerously lean toward me. No shield appeared. My dad didn’t attempt to stop him or react to protect me, in any way. He didn’t even make a single, sarcastic comment. The dark Shadow Guardianship stance pulled my dad deeper into the abyss as he started laughing in amusement.

Jaysen had watched my shield vanish, earlier. When it didn’t return, he was panicked senseless – just like me. Through some miracle, he had managed to remain calm and in character.

Then, my dad had walked into the room vulnerable…overwhelmed by shadows. The demonic Principality could easily manipulate him into service. So when Danyon set his sights on attacking me, I braced myself for my husband’s reaction. How Jaysen kept his composure under those stressful circumstances is anyone’s guess??

The security protocols will win that challenge should you choose to keep testing… Rhoan offered humorously.

Danyon forced himself to stop what he was doing. He was visibly shaking from pent-up rage and the agony caused by the Tarrish security measures in Overpower. He silently mouthed the words to me, You can’t hide in here, forever…

"She’s a whore – a demoness in disguise. That video demonstrates nothing, but female treachery orchestrated by you, Rhoan. She’s your blood…your family…a Ay’sha. Feminine channels are captivating and most pleasurable. Bane is a male, susceptible to her gypsy wiles.

I assume you are showing this manufactured footage for a reason. This must be some pitiable attempt to double cross me… Danyon offered in a frivolous, but deadly tone.

The Principality was stabbing in the dark. He needed information to work with, but Rhoan was busy laughing. So, Danyon had no choice other than wait for more details and hope a lot.

My uncle was at least trying to get his laughter under control. My dad wasn’t even making the effort. It was the first time in my life his laughter didn’t bring me any comfort or peace. I was terrified that the demonic Principality’s attention would be drawn to him, but I didn’t have any way to keep that from happening.

Please, please dad come back to me or at least, stay quiet…

Your ramblings are most entertaining. The accusations you offer, of my niece engaging in gypsy treachery, are without merit. You are well aware of the Tarrish security measures surrounding us while inside Overpower. I would surmise you are still feeling the excruciating effects and you only lost control of your temper, briefly. Those are patrons you see surrounding the spectacle and gawking in amazement. Overpower was open and in full operation when that video was taken. Surely, you are not suggesting I removed the restrictions, so Ember could channel a wile…is that the word you used, wile"??

"Assuming you believe that outlandish supposition then, might I suggest this? If she had been liberated long enough to channel her wiles, then you must realize your offspring was just as capable of reciprocating the gesture. Ember is but an unskilled child – owned and commanded by her brother. Bane however, was a seasoned channeler, proficient in dark spiritual crafts and the eldest of your bloodline. He further shared a superior Tarrish lineage through breeding. Therefore, knowing Bane as I did, I was just as shocked as you are by that display.

"The mere suggestion of my niece being a disguised demoness is additionally, unfounded in logic. All who are listening are cognizant of my personal detest for female demons and my absolute refusal to permit them entrance into my establishment. Bane bowed to Ember of his own free will. She channeled nothing to him.

As to your accusation and consideration of a possible double-cross, I understand why you would leap to that conclusion. The subject of betrayals is one you know well. You are aware of my pure Tarrish bloodline. I find it moderately perplexing that you would choose Striker – a half-breed – to attempt a backroom bargain with. The burden of Striker Pateman was thrust upon me through paternal ties. You, however, voluntarily selected your partner in duplicity. A most regrettable action now that you realize I know all about your laughable attempt at a traitorous business arrangement. I plan to demonstrate my feelings on the subject of this collusion, momentarily… Rhoan declared, holding out for dramatic effect.

Danyon was neck deep in hot water with no way of escape. So the Principality reverted to the familiar. He did what all demons do in his position and started deflecting the issue.

"This is some type of trick! That video was manufactured through Tarrish means. I demand you bring Bane here, at once. Then, I shall prove who the traitor is in this room. I have nothing to hide and have committed no betrayals – against anyone. How dare you make such an ludicrous suggestion??

I am not afraid of you, Brandeis or your little demoness puppet… Danyon countered.

"Bane cannot be brought anywhere, anymore. He made a legally binding arrangement before he walked into Overpower. Management reserves the right to act at its leisure. The footage you just witnessed understandably revealed him as a security threat. All security breaches are handled in the same manner as to avoid confusion or any appearance of human weakness. I am in no way, human.

"Your eldest has been dealt with per the standard policy – making him permanently unavailable. We will waste no further time pursuing ineffectual distractions. However, I find my curiosity piqued, slightly. Perhaps, you will explain something to me.

The avoidance of certain subjects, through babbling misdirection, is a Shadow Fall characteristic. I assume from your words and tone that you plan to outright deny having a bonus exclusive running with my brother. I have spoken with another high level official of your species. He made me aware of your Sworn in Slavery custom and validated its authenticity. Your faction with Striker makes you a Pateman servant and that footage provides… Rhoan stated, before Danyon loudly, interrupted him.

What?? There is no such custom! That is preposterous. This other Shadow Fall, whose word you are relying on, is attempting to deceive you… the Principality shouted.

As I was stating, that footage of Bane bowing in service to my niece provides convincing evidence. No debate is needed and accusations are, in this case, worthless… Rhoan attempted to continue, ignoring Danyon’s proclamation.

"I agree there is no debate. I accused you of attempted treachery and you have no evidence to offer to the contrary. There is no swearing slavery custom or whatever it is you called it. I have no backroom deal with Striker Pateman. You have no proof of anything because you’re lying!

It appears you have neglected one trivial detail. You require my dark army to realize your plans. I command a legion and without me you have nothing. I am not the Shadow Fall you wish to cross… the dark Principality declared.

He lost his dignified front, quickly. His temper took control and he dropped his human façade. Raging and barely in control of himself, the security system once again warned of impending danger. Danyon leaped across the table and stopped within inches of Rhoan’s face. The Principality unleashed his fury by shouting and threatening.

My uncle didn’t flinch. He evidently has a tremendous amount of faith in his channeling-restricted security measures. He appeared to be disinterested in the huge demon lord towering over him. Rhoan taunted him, telling him to dig the grave deeper.

Kaden Ivester was petrified as he watched the confusing scene unfold. It was clear that he didn’t share the same faith in Overpower’s security system. When Danyon jumped up to confront Rhoan, Kaden sprang to his feet as well. However, no real escape route was available because the doors were being guarded. So, he moved to the nearest corner and pressed his back up against the wall. He would have been long gone if one of the demons had permitted it.

Jaysen was still pretending to be Jarin. He was cowering beside his uncle, just like his cousin would have been doing. I pray that Kaden won’t be given an opportunity to run away in fear. If he does take off, Jaysen will be forced to follow him.

I’m only allowing this to transpire because I want Kaden to bear witness to this pitiable scene. My Ava’shay friends, you have nothing to fear and no need to worry. You are perfectly safe in this room. We require nothing from this dark lord traitor or anything he has to offer… Rhoan announced, but Kaden still didn’t relax.

If you have no need of my dark army then, I will take my leave. This is far from over Brandeis, though – mark my words… Danyon responded, darkly.

What?? You are now prepared to run away and have no offers to prove your innocence, anymore?? That amounts to an admission of your collusion with Striker. Together, the two of you planned to eliminate the rest of us, once you both reached your objective, Rhoan informed him.

I admit nothing! You will pay for this false accusation. Bane cannot be produced to refute what you are saying. That amounts to you destroying the evidence. Therefore, I will take my leave. You stated emphatically, that you want nothing I have to provide, the dark lord offered.

The challenge has now been issued to prove I am falsely accusing you. No other successful means of exiting is at your disposal. You entered into the same arrangement as Bane did. Evidence must be provided that you pose no risk to my establishment. Without foolproof evidence of your innocence, I swear you will not make it through the front door of Overpower alive… Rhoan informed him.

"Your empty threats do nothing, but embarrass you, Brandeis. No one inside this building, besides you, has a chance of living through an encounter against me. In order to annihilate me, you would have to drop the security measures and that shield you are hiding behind. Therefore, I dare you to step out and face me. Are you prepared to back up your threats with actions? If so, by all means, I will meet you head on. The one left standing will claim the full victory. It will be quite pleasant to seize the keys and take control of Overpower," Danyon threatened him.

"I have no need to waste the energy to step out and face you, Weston. I have established irrefutable evidence that the Pateman bloodline owns you through Shadow Fall customs. I have more proof than what I just demonstrated. You, on the other hand, seem to feel that the Ava’shay and I should dismiss what we saw with our own eyes. It also appears that you believe Critical, or someone else on my staff, might help you escape because they are demons.

"Let me assure you, some of my staff members might bear your cresting, but they all answer to me. I don’t rely on words, crests or promises. I control them through Tarrish measures. See those bandings locked around their upper arms?? Those are made of mallus’thalium – an alloy that is instantly toxic to your species if it is charged. Your crested followers voluntarily agreed to have those compliance devices locked in place, in exchange for very lucrative salaries and employment perks.

"The newest enforcement staff members that you do not recognize bear the sterid crest. They fall under the leadership of another Principality – the one you unseated through deception and thought you eliminated. It is prudent to obtain hard evidence of the prior leader’s assassination before claiming your throne. For a species that gets by on deceit, you certainly are trusting.

"Bane cannot be produced. This is a minor detail I should have considered before having him annihilated. I cannot afford to have the Ava’shay believe I had anything to hide. In the interest of expedience, I will have my family perform an identical demonstration to the one performed last night.

"A live demonstration will certainly put to rest any doubts the Ava’shay might have. That is an excellent idea. An active demonstration will provide us with evidence of the demonic Sworn in Slavery custom and will simultaneously prove you are Pateman personal property through that entitlement. Or Danyon, there is always the option of admitting your treachery and surviving the encounter.

"Before you impulsively answer based on emotion, remember your proof will be offered immediately after mine. It will additionally be provided in the same manner – live and inside the secured walls of Overpower. I would further detail how it must be delivered, but this has already cost me more minutes than I originally allotted. My schedule must now be adjusted to accommodate the irritation.

Two ways are being given to survive this exchange. Admit your treachery before wasting any more of my time or convincingly prove I am lying after my failed demonstration. Those are the only means of avoiding the death sentence… my Uncle Rhoan stated, succinctly.

I’m not sure whether Danyon was thinking about his options or if he was too angry to function. Either way, he didn’t respond.

My dad had evidently been sucked even further into the darkness through his indulging in the wicked amusement. His Shadow Guardianship stance was visible. The instant Danyon looks at him…it’s all over.

Typically, I would have been over the edge from insanity and overwhelmed by panic. My near-miss catastrophe from earlier had taught me a valuable lesson – think long and hard before acting.

What am I supposed to do here???

Suddenly, it occurred to me what Rhoan had just asked us to do. He wants an identical demonstration. I’m the one that provided it last night.

The excitement and relief over the revelation would end up being extremely short-lived. Although Bane Weston did bow before me, it took an incredible amount of fire essence to make him surrender. Forcing Danyon Weston to bow will be even more challenging. His power will definitely be much greater. That means I’ll need to lift more of the fire element than I have ever lifted before…and hope I somehow survive it.

I dismissed my reservations – refusing to give in to doubt. My dad is consumed in Shadows. I can’t let Danyon see him in that posture. I started lifting the fire element and the room temperature spiked. Given my beginning skill level, the elemental lifting requires me to perform a dance to keep it stable. But, there’s no music playing. Also, I’m considered property in this con job. That means I would need to ask my owner’s permission to do anything. So, I was stuck to the ground as I continued lifting more and more of the volatile element.

I wonder if skin can be incinerated from the inside…

Without the dance to keep the stream balanced, the temperature climbed to a dangerous level. Jaysen was the only one who seemed to notice the drastic difference. He was terrified, but he was helpless to do anything to assist me.

The fire…rises…

Danyon must have had enough of the grandstanding. In true Shadow Fall form, he took off running. The demons blocking his path were caught by surprise. With one swipe of his hand, they went sailing. The door almost broke off its hinges as the cowardly dark lord yanked it open. Danyon ran headlong into four of Rhoan’s sterid crested demons.

My uncle had been telling the truth about their loyalty. The immature demons blocked the exit and shoved him back inside. The dark lord was livid and threatened to annihilate them. Still feeling the agony of testing the security measures from earlier, Danyon didn’t try to channel. He yelled like a lunatic and shouted obscenities. Those things would get him nothing, but still he continued.

All the while I was thinking, do I have the strength to contain enough of the fire element to bring a full-fledged Principality to his knees??

The element is near eruption. My body already feels like a flaming torch. Still, I continued to lift even more of the volatile element in preparation for taking on the dark realm ruler. I was smiling demurely while the element raged through my body.

I was immobile and the fire element was unstable. But, I miraculously forced some of it to split into an essence stream. If I release this incomplete mixture it will streak from my spirit like a flamethrower. My blood is boiling. This isn’t going to end well.

Near death, I used the borrowed time and attempted to stabilize the evolving, all-consuming fire essence. Nothing helped…the internal assault raged on. My spirit light and the silver mist are being overshadowed by the emerging, imbalanced fiery essence. I’m being internally burned alive!

Even if I manage to split the element completely, I don’t think the astronomically massive essence will have the necessary strength. I’m not skilled enough to lift the amount of power required to bring a demonic Principality to his knees. But, I didn’t realize I was incapable of doing it before I started!

The imminent ‘Ember explosion of the century’ would incredibly wind up being the least of my worries. Danyon finally wound down and started speaking rationally…

"I know you must be mental if you think my bowing to your niece will prove anything to anyone. You won’t permit a demoness to step one foot into your establishment because of their ability to charm and manipulate through seductions. You said so, yourself.

"Did you forget that I accused your whore of female treachery?? Ember somehow circumvented her security system and used her gypsy wiles to seduce my son, Bane. Now, you expect to prove to the Ava’shay that she can seduce me, too?? That proposed, and might I add asinine, demonstration only further proves my accusations against you.

"Even the lesser ruler of the Ava’shay would have to agree with me – right, Kaden Ivester?? Rhoan’s little witch is a seductress. Our Tarrish members think you will be fool enough to believe I committed some betrayal when I fall to my knees in front of her. I would only bow to the lust she offers and I admit that, freely. How about I rape her here in front of you and save her the effort of seducing me??

"The Tarrish are evidently conspiring together to rid themselves of both of us. They wish to steal everything, right out from under our noses. Striker Pateman and Rhoan Brandeis are brothers and this has obviously been their master plan all along.

Better choose your side, Ava’shay, because this ends right here and now. Rhoan, I will see you and Striker burn in the fires below for your treachery… Danyon bellowed and Kaden remained speechless.

The proverbial (fiery) snowball is already rolling down the hill. There’s no rescue forthcoming from my spirit light…Jaysen’s spirit…or even, my mom. I’m minutes away from dying.

Although I had stopped lifting the fiery element, I still had too much stored. I can’t release this volatile, half-blended combination anyway because it will destroy the building.

Rave’s words echoed in my thoughts, Once the element is lifted and the essence rises, there’s no way to reverse the process…

Those realizations were terrible. But then, everything went from really bad to so much worse…

The forthcoming demonstration in no way requires you to bow before Ember. I intend to remove all doubts about your betrayal. The Ava’shay and I will watch as you bow before your true Master. His name is Traywick Pateman – Striker’s son and heir. He is your new owner, Rhoan explained, casually.

Chapter Two

Darkness is eating my soul alive and clouding my awareness. Even if I wanted to release the wickedness swallowing my spirit, I didn’t have any way to do that. Pounding on something might push back against this enveloping and consuming evil, but one punch will also level this building. There’s a better chance of the violence sending me into a wicked tailspin and me going berserk in a full on rage.

Just thinking about that outcome makes me shiver with excitement…

Although Danyon did have a sealed faction and bonus exclusive running with Striker, I had no way of proving it. Oddly enough the demon was telling the truth. There is no such thing as a Sworn in Slavery custom. I have no spiritual power over this Principality and I certainly don’t own him.

But none of that matters to me. The only thing I care about is annihilation.

The blood tide is coming and I’m shivering from the thrill…

Submerged inside a wickedly pleasurable vortex, protecting Ember was long forgotten. My Shadow Guardianship stance was enjoying the dark Underlord’s apprehension and fury. It’s entertaining to watch a Principality flounder around. I feel mighty…all-powerful…truly omnipotent.

My soul is lying dead, in the deepest shadows. Strangely, its demise is wickedly enlightening. I really want to kill someone – anyone. I crave to inflict torture, just because I can.

The temptation to create unending destruction and give in to the impulse was distracting. As the darkness took control of my thoughts, I understood what Jaxon had meant when we were talking on the beach. If the dark Principality orders me to kill everyone in this room, I will do it without hesitation.

However it turns out that Jaxon was wrong about one thing. I won’t be doing it through force or surrender to Danyon – although that is the way it might appear. I’ll do it for fun and pleasure…just because I want to. The Principality has no authority over me or my actions.

Danyon will believe I murdered everyone through his bidding. I’m not about to correct his assumption. He and I will have a good laugh about the body count because I plan to let him watch the festivities. Then once he is relaxed and feeling confident, I will rip through him too. That will make his death the sweetest kill of all. I’ll take over his little corner of Hades before I…

My thoughts of total Shadow world domination would have continued to fascinate me, but my uncle said my name. His disruption into my fantasy increased my rage. Every hideous, homicidal thought fed the fury growing like a leviathan inside me.

Traywick, provide the demonstration…take possession of your Principality…make your demonic property bow before you, Rhoan repeated his request.

The Principality took one look at me and smiled in understanding. This little homicidal drama we are getting ready to act through will be highly entertaining. Hopefully he will hold out for effect before he issues that bloody order. I plan to give Danyon everything he wants. He will watch the carnage. Nothing is quite as good as getting some helpful assistance from a soon-to-be, unsuspecting victim…

Listen up, my wanna-be demon buddy, you’re gonna bow to me and beg for mercy. But, I’ll tear through you and rip you in half, before I’ll ever show you any. Don’t make me come get you… I announced and winked at him.

The sterid crested demons were smart enough to understand the impending danger and ran away in terror.

Danyon knew we were perpetrating this con job strictly for amusement, but he was still incensed by my disrespectful words. Although he was laughing as he complied with my directive, the fleeting look of anger was evident as he approached. Weighing his options, he finally chose to play into the drama I was creating. I suppose he plans to deal with me after the others are dead.

The Principality narrowed his gaze and transformed from his human persona, into a demon. In his true form, he was about 8 feet tall, with blackish green skin and fiery yellow eyes that reminded me of a reptile. No one, besides me, could see Danyon’s wicked smile or his knowing wink.

In my evil frame of mind, I didn’t consider a few relevant facts. Rhoan is hidden safely behind a shield and I have no way to remove it. He also has possession of my Tarrish herald and it has a safety feature attached to it. The instant I murder Rhoan I will be retrieved by his secondary heir. Either way, I come out losing.

When darkness takes full control over the spirit, none of the consequences matter. It makes a person feel…immortal and undefeatable.

There’s no going back, once I give into this temptation.

Right before my deadly downfall happened though, my Shadow Guardianship flowed out of my spirit like I exorcised it, willingly. Suddenly, all the wickedness of that stance formed a barrier around Danyon. It looked just like my muddy brown shield, but it’s not made of anything I have ever used before. Shoved back into the Light through some type of divine intervention, I was momentarily stunned and speechless.

"Well Danyon, it appears your betrayal has been discovered. The Sworn in Slavery custom is quite real. The evidence proves my declarations. You have no way to deny your treachery any further. Tray’s oddly colored Tarrish shield that surrounds you currently, will only stream to his personal property. We are looking at indisputable proof. He has no gypsy wiles and no ability to turn into a seductress – correct?

You had a treacherous, sealed faction with Striker. You willingly relinquished some of your authority to him under the terms of this deal. Traywick took forcible possession of Striker – making him his personal property. Therefore, my nephew owns you through your species’ Sworn in Slavery custom, just as my contact revealed… Rhoan declared in vindication and continued rambling, rubbing it in.

Danyon issued bizarre threats, as he worked to escape from his prison.

Kaden sighed in relief, when he realized Rhoan had been telling the truth.

For the second time in my life, I was completely free of my Shadow Guardianship stance. The Creator had intervened and used the darkness to prove, beyond all doubt, that I own Danyon Weston!

It was like I had just been startled awake from a real, living nightmare. I realized, in horror, that I had only been fooling myself. If I had given into the slightest evil indulgence, the Principality would have taken full control. I never would have torn through him. I would have been his slave.

I was ready to offer my own sigh in relief until I happened to notice the sweat dripping from my brow. My clothes are soaked from the sweltering heat.

Realization gripped me as I turned to my daughter. Ember is close to having a volcanic explosion of epic proportions. My mind warped into overdrive as I resumed my Guardianship duties.

Ember had evidently generated an excessive amount of the fire element in anticipation of having to force Danyon to his knees. And, I wasn’t even paying attention. The astronomical amount of fire element is only partially split. She doesn’t have the skill to complete the transformation to a full essence stream.

She can’t reverse the process…

Or safely release it…

She’s being incinerated…

If my little girl doesn’t do something with the unbalanced mixture soon, she will level the entire city of Asheville, North Carolina!

Rhoan is still safely inside his shield. The dark lord is also safe from being blown to bits behind my shield. So, when Ember detonates the only two people left alive in this building will be Rhoan Brandeis and Danyon Weston.

I can’t see Jaysen because he’s located behind me. But, I know he’s freaking out and stuck in this impossible situation with us. We have to do something to dispel the fire element built up inside Ember. I could feel waves of heat as they rippled from her body.

My urgent thoughts were racing, but I couldn’t think of any way to help her. My little girl called to my Transcendence Guardianship shield to surround her.

Confused by her choice, I gave her a perplexed look. Then, suddenly it struck me. My daughter must want to protect us from being killed and shielded herself. No way am I going to let my child explode behind a barrier!

My first instinct was to withdraw the shield. But it refused to return to me. Frustrated, I struggled to make it do my bidding.

In the end, I would be grateful that I didn’t get my way because…what I thought she was doing, and what she was really doing, were entirely, two different things.

Ember somehow managed to redirect the fiery blend of elemental essence into my spirit. How my daughter survived this ravage is beyond my comprehension? I have Herculean strength and I am being internally charred. My body temperature spiked and my blood sizzled, unmercifully.

"Thanks for lettin’ me save my little girl with my last breath…" I prayed silently and prepared to surrender to my fate.

I was still breathing when the last ounce of fiery essence spilled into me. It turns out I have my Shadow Guardianship to thank for that miracle. The unleashed heat spilled into its vacant spot – it’s temporarily available. My spirit would have just enough room to store the unstable element.

Through some miracle my heart continued pounding, even as my spirit was being torched. It will be incinerated soon. I can’t survive without a soul, beating heart or no. The fire rose, consuming the spiritual essence of me…

I am sure, by all outward appearances, I must look normal. Rhoan was still babbling away about Danyon’s treachery. My uncle didn’t seem to notice that I’m a dead man, standing. I wonder if he will take a breath when the eruption happens.

Death was already overwhelming me, when yet another bizarre event occurred.

Jaysen obviously lifted the power of elemental water and split it into an essence stream. He directed the resulting righteous purity to Ember, thinking she was still in jeopardy. Although it should have rebounded to him, it penetrated my shield and inexplicably spilled into her.

The connection between me and my daughter was still open. When Jaysen’s delivery arrived, the offered blizzard would have chilled her to the bone before it was shoved into me through the spiritual passage.

The blizzard generated by the water’s essence collided with the scorching inferno inside my soul. Both essences wanted to fill the space, but there was only enough room for one. The icy water essence bullied its way inside and the fire temporarily surrendered its position. The war waged on, as the fire reasserted its hold. Then each powerful essence seized control of one side of my body. I was made of one part molten lava and the other half a savage arctic freeze. This can’t be healthy…

The two strong and opposing elements fought for internal control. The crazy weather storm inside my body thundered through my system. My blood would freeze, boil and refreeze.

I felt Ember lift the power of her luminary and Apex positions. To my knowledge that task is impossible in this room. She needs a spiritual circle to lift her ring positions. Or, she has to be standing on consecrated ground, at the bare minimum. She doesn’t have either of those things. But no matter how mysterious it is, she is definitely lifting them.

Even astonished, I suppose I should have been taking stock of my life. I’m being held in a successful death grip. My spirit is being ravaged. My body can’t accept much more punishment.

My mind refused to surrender to the torture. My thoughts were tranquil…floating, effortlessly…searching through the recesses…for something. In the midst of the inner physical chaos, my mind finally arrived at its destination.

I experienced the biggest duh moment of my life as I remembered a piece of critical information. The earth element is the strongest of the four. That’s the one I can stream. It can control the other two!

I lifted an unknown amount of the earth element and quickly, split the essence from it. The resulting cellular restriction released with a billow of green smoke. Fortunately, everyone was still focused on Rhoan’s crazy ramblings and Danyon’s outlandish rant.

When I formulated my ‘earth essence can take charge’ plan, I neglected a very important detail. There’s not enough room for two epic elemental essences inside of me – much less three.

The earth’s essence plunged back inside my soul. Then, the powerful blend was forcibly ejected from my spirit. Ember absorbed them, wrapped them in her spirit light and sent everything back to me. I didn’t even have time to panic.

Earth, water and fire were united. Their internal war had halted and they filled the vacant space inside my spirit. Relieved for a split second, I thought the elemental madness might just be over. But evidently elemental spiritual essences are more stubborn than me.

Even though the blending was stabilized, the united essences still refused to remain stationary. I desperately tried to maintain command over the combination and hold on to them – yet another unwinnable battle.

The united essence trio emerged and rocketed out of my spirit. Helpless to guide the stream, I watched the epic combination take on a life of its own.

Rhoan moved out of the way, just in the nick of time. The combined essences brushed by him and were absorbed into my shield surrounding Danyon Weston. I cringed, expecting the barrier to shatter and rebound to me. But nothing happened.

Danyon didn’t notice anything strange. He continued to bellow protests, shout obscenities and threaten to kill everyone, uninterrupted.

The shield would be no match for the elemental essences, wrapped in a spirit light. Although nothing visible was occurring, the combination found its mark. The dark Underlord fell to his knees for seemingly no apparent reason to the unsuspecting audience. The blending seized control of Danyon’s entire system and the results were shocking.

Master Tray, release me. I will do anything you desire…I serve…my Master… the Principality declared while attempting to claw his way through my shield. Let me kiss your feet. I’m unworthy Master. Please, please release me to do your bidding…

I was astounded as the humorous scene continued. Danyon continued to beg and plead like my biggest fan. I was enjoying the spectacle until everyone in the room gasped and pointed at me.

What??? I asked, to no specific person.

The color… is all Kaden Ivester managed to squeak out while he motioned to my face.

The room was filled with reflective surfaces. But, I didn’t need a mirror to discover the source of everyone’s surprise. My Spiritual Warrior mask is glowing orange! It had changed colors at some point and I didn’t even notice. It was casting a bizarre shadow as it reflected off the shielded Principality.

The eerie glow was monumentally unsettling. I didn’t know how to make the color switch back to its normal shade of blue. However the evil looking glow from my facial tats provides additional proof that Striker had a deal running with Danyon.

Although it was risky, I gave Jaysen an urgent and puzzled expression. His facial etchings are still illuminating with their typical color. He shrugged his shoulders – his stunned expression mirrored mine.

The dark Underlord was starting to get control of himself. He was still thoroughly confused by what had just transpired.

I had managed to maintain my con, even with the peculiar illumination. I had provided indisputable proof that Danyon Weston is my property. But, what am I supposed to do with this captured demon??

Kaden is a first rate coward. He has proven it. So, there is no chance he will challenge Danyon. Kaden does have good reason to be afraid, I suppose. He doesn’t have a single, finished facial etching. That means he has no practical experience battling in the Fatality Stadium. I estimated that he would be annihilated by the Principality within ten seconds – maybe, less.

Rhoan is evidently all talk because he has been threatening to do something for a long time, but refuses to even briefly drop his security measures. That is the epitome of spinelessness considering he’s behind his personal shield and the dark lord is imprisoned behind mine.

I caught myself right before I stated something sarcastic. My own ninety nine pound daughter is willing to take on the dark realm leader by herself, but Rhoan Brandeis and Kaden Ivester are terrified to be in the same room with him without security measures. The thought was so hilarious that I actually started laughing.

So you gonna force me to stand here all friggin’ night or are you satisfied he’s my property?? I questioned Rhoan.

Danyon no longer felt the need to kiss my feet, but he was still feeling the desire to worship me nonetheless. He had his hands pressed against the shield and I heard him mutter Master under his breath. He also continued to gaze at me like I’m Beelzebub incarnate. It looked like he was star-struck and that was freaking me out.

Rave will be witnessing this unbelievable and hilarious spectacle through our micro-surveillance cameras. At least now he knows how demons react when elemental essences are streamed to them. The combination is invisible, but Rave will know precisely what’s happening. This scene is priceless on the comedy meter…so, he is definitely falling over, laughing.

We are satisfied, Kaden offered quickly.

I am also satisfied with your proof, Traywick. However, I want him to admit aloud that he was in collusion with my brother… Rhoan requested.

Tell him you had a deal with Striker P. and I’ll release you… I offered the Principality.

Yes, Master! I had a bargain sealed as a shadowed faction with Striker Pateman. We were planning to take… Danyon admitted before I interrupted him.

Enough! I said confess and you did it. We’ve wasted too much time on this nonsense… I stated.

I know how chatty demons get when they believe they might be set free. I can’t risk Danyon revealing something that might arouse my uncle’s suspicions.

Rhoan looked vindicated as the dark Underlord fell silent on my command.

Danyon, when we formed our business relationship, I revealed any type of betrayal would be discovered. You knew, as did Kaden, that disloyalty in any form would be unearthed and dealt with by me, personally. How dare you even attempt to double cross me?? You are a fool… Rhoan ranted.

My uncle continued on his tirade for another five minutes about how he would exact revenge. He actually used the word personally seventeen times. These imposing threats of personal retribution would also turn out to be all posturing. Once Rhoan’s anger was spent, he told me to take care of Danyon Weston since he’s my property.

That is Rhoan Brandeis’s grand and glorious plan of personal revenge?? He wants me to just escort the dark lord outside and kill him…

My Spiritual Warrior stance truly wanted to give him that little gift too, but I couldn’t risk that battle. For one thing, I don’t know if I can challenge him to meet me in the Fatality Stadium. Even if I’m successful, my Shadow Guardianship poses a few, massive problems. It will be returned to me at some point.

The most likely scenario is my dark posture will rebound upon arrival – meaning, there is a decent chance I will land in the Fatality Stadium, already consumed in wickedness. The dark Underlord will have full control over me and my actions…not good.

Or, my Shadow Guardianship might not be delivered until after the fight ends. The bloody aftermath of the violence would spin me out of control again. I would return to Overpower consumed in rage and annihilate everyone…that’s even worse!

I stalled while I desperately prayed for a solution.

No way am I gonna leave my sister in here, alone to take care of this sniveling demon. Hey wait – I’ve got a brilliant idea. Kaden, you’re a military leader and a decorated Spiritual Warrior, right?? How’s about you challenge your old buddy boy, Danyon and show us what you’re made of… I offered.

Kaden Ivester turned into a ghost at the suggestion.

No! You promised to release me if I admitted Striker’s treachery. I demand you keep your word… the dark lord yelled in fear – evidently, he’s no longer interested in calling me Master.

I said I was gonna release you, and I am. Just as soon as the Ava’shay ruler challenges you into battle, you’ll be free as a bird, pal… I told him and fought the dire need to laugh.

I’m not prepared to battle Danyon. I must remain in this meeting as we have business to attend to. Rhoan, it was your brother that was in collusion with the dark lord. You want to seek personal retribution, so here’s your chance. You destroy him with a Tarrish channel or shoot him with a gun for all I care, but it was your blood that created this atrocity. You should be the one to deal with him… Kaden demanded.

They spent the next fifteen minutes arguing over which one would take care of Danyon Weston. I had to keep my eyes on the floor because I knew I would lose it for sure if I so much as glanced at Jaysen or Ember. This is, undoubtedly, the single most priceless thing that has ever occurred in front of us. In the end, it didn’t matter which direction I averted my eyes because suddenly, an insane thought occurred to me.

We are witnessing the first inter-realm chicken fight…

Doubling over in laughter, I had tears streaming down my face. I couldn’t seem to stop myself. My few minutes of self-indulgence would be costly though. Ember and Jaysen appeared to be ready to pass out from unspent hilarity. They had no idea what I found so funny, but that type of laughter is contagious.

Kaden and my Uncle Rhoan were still at odds over who was going to destroy the Principality. However, they did stop having their ‘chicken fight’ long enough to gawk at me. I eventually regained my composure. Danyon Weston cursed and threatened everyone. He found no humor in this situation.

"I gotta say my rule about demon involvement in my personal and business life has obviously served me well. Listen up, gentlemen. Danyon Weston is my property, but Rhoan knows how I feel about dealing with the dark realm.

"It’s comical that I’ve spent my whole life avoiding deals with the Shadow Fall because of this very thing. Then, the first and only time I meet up with a scary demon Underlord, he begs to kiss my feet. It’s kinda sad when I can’t find a single use for this property. Striker should’ve known better than to run a bonus exclusive with a liar or fool around with this freakin’ demonic nonsense.

I can’t kill Danyon myself because his death will fulfill my contract to the Ava’shay military. I challenged the Prowess Arena. Kaden and Jarin know I would have to serve my time because I’m sure they successfully completed it. It’s a requirement to lead your people, right? I asked with a curious tone.

Of course, I have successfully navigated the Prowess Arena and had to serve my time. I have nothing else to prove to anyone, Kaden declared.

I felt the laughter start to rise again because Kaden had never stepped into the Prowess Arena, much less challenged it. To maintain my serious facial expression, I had to call on my gypsy skills. The issue of who is going to eliminate Danyon Weston needs to be resolved. Otherwise, we will be here all night long, listening to the chickens fight.

Let’s settle this. Jarin can take the dark Underlord outside and… I stated before the clucking-twins interrupted me.

They both agreed that Jarin was the one who should have to deal with Danyon Weston.

Jaysen’s own chicken routine would not make it any easier to contain my laughter. We exchanged a brief look and I bit down hard on my lower lip. I almost choked holding in my hilarity as my brother provided an award-worthy performance.

Chapter Three

Listening to Rhoan vent and make empty threats to eliminate the Principality was certainly familiar. I had been forced to play the part of my cousin Jarin for the traitor, Vice Admiral Kurt Hevartis and then for my Uncle Kaden. I got a firsthand demonstration of how cowards operate. I sat silently in that instance too and added nothing. The Ava’shay traitors also boasted and issued hollow threats to various people.

Hevartis and Kaden both knew about Jarin’s plot to murder me. This was actually the first subject they broached. I didn’t have the details on my cousin’s plan to assassinate me. So I revealed that I had to rearrange the date and the details out of necessity. I further suggested they already understood the reason I had to make those changes. Unwilling to demonstrate their ignorance, they emphatically declared that they knew precisely why I chose to rearrange Jaysen’s murder. Once that matter was put to rest, I immediately shifted the focus back to them.

Tray had given me some quick instructions on how to run a con. My brother explained that I should let Kaden and Hevartis lead the conversation. He assured me they would inadvertently provide plenty of clues about what type of relationship they had with Jarin through casual conversation. As the clues were revealed I should incorporate those into my con and use them to guide my actions.

My brother also revealed that people generally love to talk about themselves. He told me that anytime I found myself floundering around I should ask my marks a leading question or make a comment designed to get them bragging. The topics could be about their vast power and incredible skills in anything. Tray also revealed that comments referencing their prowess with the opposite sex would work like a charm.

That is, bar-none, the best piece of advice anyone has ever given me…

It is remarkably easy to guide a conversation. I never realized how often men brag about their conquests. My uncle boasted to me for over an hour during the private meeting he held with me and Hevartis.

Then, when we were alone, Kaden offered me graphic details about every woman he has known in his existence. He then told me all about this Council, the members and how he plans to use the others to overthrow our home realm. Once he has command of the Ava’shay, he intends to issue an order for our army to attack and seize the earth.

He bragged that everyone would be forced to bow to him because he plans to rule with a ruthless iron fist – unlike his weak, soft, bleeding-heart brother. The mention of my father’s name led Kaden into a longwinded tirade. He ranted about how his brother, the king, is more worthless than slime and the many plans he has to assassinate him. My uncle’s murderous, blood thirsty tyranny over everyone, everywhere continued as he outlined his plans to personally eliminate Rhoan and Danyon.

"My ardent desire is that I be provided an opportunity to personally eliminate Brandeis or Weston. You, Jarin, should witness the prestige and power of my feared leadership before you rise to the station of Lord Master…"

That was my Uncle Kaden’s last conceited declaration before the portal opened to deliver us to Overpower. He would be presented with his ardent desire. And not so surprisingly, he had a change of heart while shivering and cowering in the corner.

I already had a suspicion that something was amiss with Tray when his shield around Ember had disintegrated and he did not replace it. The tension mounted, but I somehow remained seated.

The minutes had ticked by. My wife was still unshielded. I knew undoubtedly that my brother was in serious hot water. I was stuck in my chair, listening to my uncle’s fictions about his superiority in the bedroom.

I was outwardly smiling and engaging in a ridiculous discussion with Kaden – all the while I was in the process of having a stark mental breakdown. My spiritual force felt like an internal